Stellar 2008s on tasting today at our Bishopsgate shop from noon

Always looking for an excuse to taste some seriously good wine, the eagerly anticipated arrival of 2011 Chateauneuf-du-Pape en primeur has provoked the opening of three of our favourites from the not dissimilar 2008 vintage. Also elegant wines from a slightly cooler than average vintage, these fresh and gorgeous beauties are often the favourites of their makers from recent vintages. What is so prized about them?

Although they have the power typical of Chateauneuf, they have arguably more finesse and complexity, and are deliciously drinkable. Our early tastings suggest that the 2011s will share these fine qualities, and, indeed, probably surpass them. At the same time, the area's producers are in tune with the market: most are not producing special bottlings despite the quality - which means all the best juice goes into the classic cuvee - and yet many have reduced their prices. Please pop in today for a taste of three stellar '08s. /CW

Click here to view early offerings of 2011 Rhone en primeur, or call 020 7638 5998 to place an order by phone